🔗 Share this article Peru Plans to Announce State of Emergency After Deadly Protests Targeting New President The nation will soon declare a state of emergency after at least one person was killed and numerous law enforcement personnel sustained injuries in widespread protests against the newly installed president, who assumed power just days ago. Government Response The nation's premier announced Thursday evening that the government would declare emergency protocols for the capital within hours and is preparing a package of measures to address escalating safety concerns. The protest on Wednesday night – called by gen Z protesters, transport workers and civil groups – was the latest in a series of demonstrations against corruption and rising crime, which led to the dramatic midnight ouster of former president Dina Boluarte last Thursday. Demonstration Developments Mass gatherings formed nationwide, with significant confrontations occurring at the legislative building. Law enforcement deployed crowd control measures while some protesters hurled fireworks, rocks and burning objects. "Everyone must go!" demonstrators shouted upon arriving at the legislature and tried to tear down metal barriers surrounding the structure. Casualties and Investigation A 32-year-old man, Eduardo Mauricio Ruiz, lost his life in the demonstration and authorities pledged to examine the circumstances, stated a human rights representative, from the national oversight institution. The nation's judicial authorities said Ruiz died after being shot. Government Position Jerà expressed regret over Ruiz's death through social media channels, promising an impartial inquiry. He blamed violence on "delinquents who infiltrated a peaceful demonstration to sow chaos". "Legal consequences will be severe," he affirmed. Following legislative discussions regarding the demonstrations, the president requested expanded powers to address security matters. Planned Changes Jerà said one focus would be prison reform, but did not elaborate on what those powers would entail. Recently installed security chief Vicente Tiburcio told the unicameral congress that the government would push for comprehensive reform to the national police, noting significant injury counts among both officers and citizens and multiple individuals faced arrest. Governing Challenges The recent demonstrations served as an indicator for how JerÃ's nascent presidency – concluding with upcoming electoral proceedings – could play out. JerÃ, 38 committed to prioritizing public safety but has faced a number of scandals, including corruption allegations and a now-shelved investigation for sexual assault. The president refuted all allegations and pledged full cooperation with oversight proceedings. Previous Administration Boluarte's government faced widespread protests after she assumed power in late 2022, leading to dozens of deaths and a plunge in her popularity levels, registering minimal public support before removal. Congress – which was headed by Jerà before he became president is almost equally unpopular, registering minimal constituent support.